Adventure shouldn’t have any limits – and in Olympic City USA, we’re making sure it doesn’t. Whether you’re a local looking for accessible experiences or planning an itinerary for your friends and family members, you’ll find plenty of options for a great adventure for everyone.
Accessible Experiences
Trailability Program – El Paso County Parks runs a Trailability Program featuring Terrain Hoppers at both Bear Creek and Fountain Creek Nature Centers. These are off-roading mobility vehicles that allow members of the community and visiting guests with disabilities to better experience trails, escorted by a trained volunteer. Reservations are required and the program is completely free.
Adventures Out West Jeep Tour – Adventures Out West has a custom, ADA-accessible Jeep with a Braunability hydraulic lift. Now visitors can drive their wheelchair or scooter directly onto the back of the vehicle where it will be secured with a series of factory-made seat belts. Reservations are recommended to ensure you can book this vehicle.
U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum – To maximize accessibility for all guests, the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum features universal and inclusive design. Gentle ramps are featured throughout the museum to ensure all galleries are wheelchair accessible. Exhibits feature audio descriptions, open captioning and American Sign Language and touchscreen interactives with tactile keypads. Other accessibility services are available upon request like assistive listening devices and sensory bags.
Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center – Brand new in 2021, the Pikes Peak Summit Visitor Center provides improved accessibility throughout the entire summit with interpretive exhibits and new, paved outdoor walkways. Visitors with mobility disabilities can access the summit via vehicle or shuttle on Pikes Peak Highway, or on The Broadmoor Manitou and Pikes Peak Cog Railway. It’s truly one of the most accessible mountain summits!
What’s Coming
While our destination already has incredible, accessible experiences, there is always room to grow. Here are some other programs on the horizon.
VIP Trail – Bear Creek Nature Center has been working on a VIP Trail with audio stops that describe the area for those with visual impairments.
Sensory Kits at Bear Creek and Fountain Creek Nature Centers – Both nature centers are working on having sensory bags available for guests to check out, free of charge, that include noise-canceling headphones, fidget devices and additional resources.
Wheel the World Partnership – Visit Colorado Springs was awarded a Tourism Management Grant by the Colorado Tourism Office, which is being used toward a partnership with Wheel the World. Various bookable experiences – ranging from lodging to museums and attractions – will soon be listed on Wheel the World’s website and include a full rundown of accessibility information for those coming to Colorado Springs.
More information on accessibility in COS can be found on VisitCOS.com.
